Calder Jewelry show at Norton review
Its always fun to go to one of the Norton Museum's Member openings. You get to hobnob with seasoned citizens that obviously appreciate art, as evidenced by their comments and out loud reading of the commentaries accompanying the exhibits. "So, was it interesting?" "yes, very interesting." And then on to the refreshments. Little cookies, coffee, ice tea and small brownies. Definitely okay food. All partaken in the little outdoor sculpture area, because there is never any food in the gallery area. Wouldn't want to get crumbs on the Hansen sculpture.
I passed on the Prix Fixe dinner from 5 - 7 pm for $25. plus tax and gratuity. (What is a Prix Fixe dinner? Does it involve chicken?)
Here is the link if you want to see more information. Or you could buy a book they sell in the museum store for only $65.00, but members get 10% off!
http://norton.org/exhibitions/schedule2008-4.htm
If you go to this page, there are two photos of some of the jewelry which is on exhibit this month and next. Alexander Calder was a wonderful artist/sculptor, known for his mobiles. The jewelry reflects his ability to create moveable pieces of sculptures, in that they are like portable works of art. It was really great to see these unbelievably stunning and in some cases, unwearable pieces of jewelry that include necklaces, bracelets, combs, belts, rings and some pieces that are hard to describe. Honestly, there is one comb, made of brass that would not fit in a normal hairdo, but probably take two wigs to hold in place. But, hey you are wearing original art, especially if your name is Peggy Guggenheim! (There is a photo of her wearing some really cool earrings.) There are also large photos of other models wearing jewelry, like Brooke Shields, Georgia O'Keefe, Anjelica Huston and some other socialite woman.
The beautiful thing was that some of the pieces he made as gifts for his wife. It must be wonderful to recieve an original piece of art made as a necklace or bracelet, or even a miniature mobile hanging from your ears.
"Here, honey, I made this for you." "Oh, sweetie, thank you. It looks more like a shoulder/body piece, and it weighs a ton, but its beautiful and someday you will be a famous artist."
Yes, some of the pieces which were termed "necklace" actually covered the shoulders or chest area as well, and there were some tiaras that defied description. You could also go into battle wearing some of these, but if you showed up at a party wearing one of Calder's jewelry pieces, you were sure to be noticed. (I would suggest wearing all black, like a turtleneck, to really bring out the beauty of the piece.) And to protect the wearer from the weight.
All kidding aside, I would also suggest seeing this show if you are in the West Palm area. The Norton supposedly has free Saturdays, but this show might be one of those additional fees. Well worth it though. I thought it was great! It also inspired me to want to take jewelry class or just try my hand at throwing some stuff together, like decorating a belt or purse. None of those wimpy beaded necklaces or bracelets here. Calder made his jewelry by beating it out with a hammer and a torch, wires, rivets. Great stuff.
Also still showing is "A Show of Hands" with photos, sculptures and artwork revolving around the theme of hands. I enjoyed this one a lot. But my favorite is the small show of Chinese paintings of getaways. Trees, water and little people. Very calm and peaceful looking.
